Improving security yourself

General advice

• Ensure that the equipment you are using to access our online services cannot be overlooked by another person (much as you would do whilst entering your PIN into an ATM).
• When you have completed your transaction or wish to take a break, log-off the service and close down your Internet browser.
• It is best not to use a public computer to access your online accounts because you cannot be certain that the public computer is secure - it may be infected with a virus that will try to collect your password or other personal information, for example.
• Using an email account that is not shared with other family members will help keep your communications confidential.
• Log in regularly to check your account and tell us straight away if something is wrong.

Passwords

• If you apply for one of our mortgages through the site or for one of our online accounts, do not pick a password that will be easily guessed, for example your telephone number or daughter's birthday. We have certain rules in place that make sure the password you choose is reasonably strong.
• Do not tell anybody your login information. Your password should be secret and known only to you. If you suspect somebody else knows your password, change it immediately.

Anti-virus

Viruses can be a huge problem. You should use anti-virus software to protect your computer and minimise the risk that your personal details or information might be compromised by a virus. Make sure you set up your anti-virus software so that it regularly updates itself.

Firewalls

• A firewall is a device or piece of software that is designed to control the traffic passing between your computer and the internet.
• Firewalls are a very effective security measure and limit how your computer can be accessed from the internet, which makes it harder for a hacker to attack it. Whenever you use the internet, you should have a firewall in place, especially if you're using a broadband internet connection.

Spyware

• Spyware or Ad-ware is a growing problem. Spyware is a term used to describe a type of program that tries to collect information about you and your browsing habits, often without your knowledge or consent. People are normally tricked into installing spyware programs.
• There are a number of anti-spyware programs available, many of which are free. It is a good idea to use an anti-spyware program to make sure your computer is clean.

Barnsley Building Society and the Barnsley are trading names of Yorkshire Building Society. Principal office: Yorkshire House, Yorkshire Drive, Bradford BD5 8LJ.
Yorkshire Building Society is a member of the Building Societies Association and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. It is entered in the FSA register and its FSA registration number is 106085.

This site is intended for UK Residents unless otherwise stated. All communications with us may be monitored/recorded to improve the quality of our service and for your protection and security.

* Charges to 0845 numbers may vary. Prices can be checked with your phone provider. Mobiles calls usually cost more.